Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful dish that combines tender rotisserie chicken, sweet corn, and zesty green enchilada sauce. This soup is perfect for cozy dinners, gatherings, or any day you crave comfort food. Its unique blend of flavors and customizable toppings make it a standout choice for various occasions. Whether you’re serving it up on a chilly evening or bringing it to a potluck, this soup is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: With bold spices and fresh ingredients, every bowl bursts with flavor.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or fried tortilla strips for a unique twist each time.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Kid Friendly: The mild heat and creamy texture appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for an efficient experience. Having the right equipment on hand makes preparing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for cooking soups evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend well.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is filled with rotisserie chicken, sweet corn, green enchilada sauce, plenty of spicy flavors and pinto beans. And this soup is really all about the toppings! Pile on lots of avocado, fried tortilla strips, fresh cilantro or scallions, and plenty of grated cheese.

For the Base

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 medium yellow or white onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15 oz.) jar green enchilada sauce (or salsa verde is a fine option too)
• 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles (mild)
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1 tsp. chipotle chili pepper powder

For the Soup

• 4 oz. full-fat cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 1 (15 oz.) can yellow corn, drained
• 1 (15 oz.) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed

For Toppings

• Fried tortilla strips
• Avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Grated cheese
• Sour cream
• Sliced scallions

How to Make Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat until it’s hot and shimmering.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add the onion and jalapeno to the pot; season with salt. Cook while stirring until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir until fragrant, which should take about 1 minute.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Sauces

Pour in the chicken broth along with the green enchilada sauce and diced green chiles. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.

Step 5: Mix in Cream Cheese

Add in the softened cream cheese cubes. Stir until it partially melts; don’t worry if it looks clumpy at first—it will melt completely.

Step 6: Stir in Chicken & Beans

Finally, add in the shredded rotisserie chicken, corn, pinto beans, and sour cream. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed. Allow it to heat through for a couple of minutes without boiling—this helps prevent curdling of the cream cheese.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

Serve immediately topped with your favorite ingredients such as avocado or fried tortilla strips. Store any leftovers properly in your fridge for up to four days; remember to add more broth or water when reheating!

How to Serve Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting and versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste with various toppings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

Fresh Avocado

• Creamy avocado slices add richness and a fresh flavor that complements the spiciness of the soup.

Fried Tortilla Strips

• Crunchy tortilla strips provide a delicious texture contrast, making each spoonful exciting.

Grated Cheese

• Sprinkle on your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for extra creaminess and flavor.

Fresh Cilantro

• Chopped cilantro brings brightness and an aromatic touch, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.

Sliced Scallions

• Adding scallions gives a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that makes the dish more appealing.

Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream balances the heat of the soup with its cool creaminess, creating a delightful fusion of flavors.

How to Perfect Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

To make your Green Chicken Enchilada Soup even better, follow these simple tips for a perfect bowl every time.

• Use homemade broth: If possible, opt for homemade chicken broth for richer flavor compared to store-bought options.
• Adjust spice levels: Customize the heat by using more or fewer jalapenos based on your preference for spiciness.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and texture.
• Try different proteins: Substitute rotisserie chicken with shredded turkey or even beans for a vegetarian version.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling after adding cream cheese to prevent curdling; simmer gently for best results.
• Garnish creatively: Experiment with toppings like lime wedges or pickled onions to enhance flavors and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Green Chicken Enchilada Soup can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up any leftover broth while adding a delightful sweetness.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices pairs well with the flavors in the soup and adds heartiness.
3. Guacamole: A creamy guacamole made with ripe avocados enhances the fresh flavors already present in the soup.
4. Chips and Salsa: Tortilla chips served with zesty salsa offer a crunchy accompaniment that complements the soup’s texture.
5. Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with light dressing adds freshness and balances out the richness of the soup.
6. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with vegetables or meats provide another delicious option that pairs wonderfully with soup.
7. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the spiciness of the enchilada soup.
8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make for an attractive side dish full of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Green Chicken Enchilada Soup can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using low-quality chicken: Always opt for fresh rotisserie chicken for the best flavor. If you use bland chicken, your soup will lack depth.
• Overcooking the cream cheese: When adding cream cheese, stir gently and avoid boiling. Overheating can cause it to curdle and ruin the creamy texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient adds its own flavor. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings, especially salt, to suit your palate.
• Skipping toppings: Toppings are crucial for enhancing flavor and texture. Don’t skip fresh cilantro, avocado, or crispy tortilla strips—these make the soup truly special.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Best used within 3 months for quality.

Reheating Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of green enchilada sauce?

You can substitute salsa verde or homemade green sauce for a similar taste.

How can I customize my Green Chicken Enchilada Soup?

Feel free to add black beans, more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or switch the meat type based on your preference.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How spicy is Green Chicken Enchilada Soup?

The spice level depends on the jalapeno and chipotle chili powder used. Adjust these ingredients based on your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

Green Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that offers comfort and satisfaction. With endless customization options, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, topped with creamy avocado or crunchy tortilla strips, this recipe invites you to get creative in the kitchen!